Evaluating Cognitive Enrichment for Zoo-Housed Gorillas Using Facial Recognition

Brookes, O., Gray, S., Bennett, P., Burgess, K. V., Clark, F. E., Roberts, E., & Burghardt, T. (2022). Evaluating Cognitive Enrichment for Zoo-Housed Gorillas Using Facial Recognition. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2022.886720

This study evaluated the use of facial recognition technology for cognitive enrichment in zoo-housed Western lowland gorillas. A machine learning-based system was integrated into a finger maze to track individual gorillas' device interaction, achieving 97% accuracy in identification. While the technology successfully automated data collection on engagement, it required significant hardware and expertise, making it feasible primarily for long-term projects. Full automation of cognitive enrichment assessment remains challenging, necessitating additional tools such as infrared sensors to track specific behaviors.